I have three working cocker spaniels and we have been training with Lauren and Devon Dogs for nearly four years (writing in early 2010). We love training as it gives the dogs a positive rewarding way of using their active brains and high energy levels. And it gives me an excuse to have fun, spend time with my dogs and work with them on that magical journey to develop a true understanding with my canine best friends.

Kidi (black/tan) is nearly 7 years old. Her father was a gamekeeper’s dog and she has a working pedigree to match her strong personality. We reckon she has a PhD in people as she can get anyone to do her bidding within minutes! Kidi and I needed a lot of re-training when we first met Lauren, but it paid off and Kidi is now a Grade 6 medium agility dog. Amazing – I well remember being sure we would never get out of Grade 1. Kidi has had a fractured skull, slipped disc and a litter of puppies so it’s all a bit of a miracle!

Coco is Kidi’s daughter, but very different from her mother. She is taller, faster but much more sensitive. So her training has needed patience – often going back a stage to build confidence. Now, we have an adorable flying whirlwind Grade 5 agility dog, who could be brilliant if I ever learn to teach her to slow down to turn more tightly!